Glastonbury Town Council Reviewing Plans To Increase Land Acquisition Funding

A year ago, the town council decided to hold off on increasing funding for one of the most successful land acquisition programs in the state.

But with a national presidential election in November and a high voter turnout expected, the plan to increase funding is back. The council is discussing adding up to $2 million into the fund that has preserved more than 1,650 acres since its creation in 1988.

"Everyone on the council has been supportive of the land acquisition fund in prior years and the town has been very supportive too," Councilman Whit C. Osgood said.

Last year, with $1.9 million remaining in the fund, the council voted 8-1 not to add any money. But with the land acquisition and preservation account down to $1.54 million, the council is looking into adding funding. A decision will be made later this summer.

The vote to approve funding only authorizes the council to spend up to $2 million on land acquisition. When a property is acquired, the council holds several public hearings before voting to purchase the land. In 2004 and 2009, voters approved $4 million; in 1999, 2001 and 2003 $3 million and $2 million was approved in 1988, 1997 and 2009.

Councilman Thomas Gullotta said the fund is important especially when a farm or other large parcel becomes available.

"There is a huge benefit in terms of doing that," he said, "because every farm we purchase means it doesn't get developed for housing…the studies show quite clearly every time you build a house the community loses money. This fund is the brightest and best thing this council ever did."